The Ekadasi by the name of Putrada Ekadashi is observed during the waxing phase of the moon in the month of July/August and also December/January. In 2015, the date of Putrada Ekadasi in Paush month (January - February) was January 1. Putrada Ekadasi is observed during the waxing phase of the moon in Shravan month (July – August) in some parts of North India, Gujarat, Orissa, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and it is on August 26, 2015. The corresponding name of Ekadasi observed in North India during the Shukla Paksha in Shravan month is the Pavitra Ekadasi.

In South India, this Ekadasi is observed as Vaikunta Ekadasi in 2015 in South India.

Ekadasi is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is observed on the 11th day of waning and waxing phase of moon in traditional Hindu calendar. It is believed that by fasting on Putrada Ekadasi one is relieved of all the sins committed. The greatness of this Ekadasi was explained to Yudhishtira by Lord Krishna and is found in the Bhavisyotara Purana.

There is a popular belief that married couples without children will be blessed with children if they observe Putrada Ekadasi.

Most Vishnu devotees fast on the day and some devotees do not sleep. Those people observing partial fasting abstain from food made of rice.